AFM PRESS RELEASE

The AFM's Rescue Coordination Centre has assumed coordination of a major Search and Rescue incident 60 nautical miles south of Lampedusa Island.

The said boat was being following by the Rescue centre and located by AFM aircraft at 1600hrs.

Reports were that the craft, although underway towards Lampedusa, appeared unstable. A few minutes later, the aircraft reported that the boat had capsized and that numerous persons were in the water. Initial assistance was provided by the aircraft which dropped a life-raft in close proximity of the persons in distress.

AFM Patrol Boat P61 was first to arrive on scene at around 1751hrs and immediately initiated SAR activities. It was joined shortly afterwards by the Italian patrol vessel ITS Libra. SAR activities are continuing at this time and further updates will be provided when available.